Scotland's Volcanoes (Online)

In this online course, you will explore Scotland’s rich history of volcanic activity and discover how it produced a wide range of igneous rocks. You will learn how these rocks continue to shape Scotland’s landscape today, from some of its highest hills to its most dramatic island scenery.

You will investigate what Scotland’s volcanoes may have looked like and how they erupted, using carefully selected visual material, images of rock outcrops and samples, and case studies. You will also compare Scotland’s volcanic past with volcanic activity around the world today to understand the nature and scale of the eruptions that once took place here.

Any recommended reading will be advised by the course teacher once the course is confirmed to run. You will require access to a computer or other device with internet connection.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course you should be able to:

• Understand the main types of igneous rock and the geology of Scotland, and how these contribute to Scotland’s landscape
• Compare examples of recent volcanic activity around the world to past activity in Scotland
• Develop analytical and observational skills to identify igneous rocks, and understand volcanic activity in the past and present.  

There are no specific entry requirements for this course. You do not need to have any prior knowledge about geology.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be aged 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s  Accessible and Inclusive Learning Policy.

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support.  

There are no specific entry requirements for this course.

You will need to have reading, listening and communication skills, including the ability to understand detailed ideas and information presented verbally and in writing. You must be comfortable learning in English if it is not your first language. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Booking is available until 23:59 the day before the course start date, unless the course is full or cancelled.